5 Vietnam veterans recognized for work

CARLSBAD 
The nonprofit group American Combat Veterans of War honored five men for their bravery in the Vietnam War and for aiding troops returning from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Former Marines Ken Pipes, Jack Cargile, Charles Hartsell and Albert Slater and Army veteran John Stryker Meyer received commemorative knives during a presentation ceremony Friday in Carlsbad.

Founded in 2001, American Combat Veterans of War is an all-volunteer charity that assists troops and veterans with everything from post-traumatic stress disorder to financial problems. It also advises lawmakers on veterans issues while helping veterans navigate government bureaucracies as they apply for benefits.